Expanding London Operations: Nishimura Welcomes Back Former Associate as Business Partner
Shingo Ito, a qualified solicitor in England and Wales, has joined Nishimura & Asahi's London office as a partner, marking a strategic move by the firm to enhance its legal services for Japanese businesses operating in Europe. Ito's appointment strengthens the firm's capability to provide on-the-ground legal advice in London, a major financial and business hub, and helps bridge Japanese business interests with the complexities of European markets and regulatory frameworks[1][2].
Ito, who relocated to London in 2016, specializes in cross-border mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, and real estate transactions, with a particular focus on real estate and renewable energy investments by Japanese businesses. His extensive experience advising Japanese clients on cross-border transactions will be invaluable in navigating the intricacies of European law and business practices[1][2].
Ito's legal career began at Nishimura & Asahi's Tokyo office before he moved to Bird & Bird. His return to Nishimura & Asahi further strengthens the London office's ability to provide on-the-ground support to Japanese businesses pursuing opportunities across Europe. The London office, which launched earlier this year, now boasts three partners: Shingo Ito, Yoshiyuki Kizu, and Timothy Merchant[1][2].
Nishimura & Asahi's commitment to bolstering its presence and legal support network in Europe is further evidenced by its outposts in Frankfurt and Dusseldorf. This strategic hire reflects the firm's dedication to meeting the needs of its Japanese clients as they expand their operations in Europe[1][2].
Ito's unique experience in both Tokyo and London will continue to support Japanese clients on a wide range of corporate transactions. His expertise in structuring, debt financing, and restructuring, coupled with his specialization in banking and finance, makes him an asset to the firm and its clients[1][2].
In summary, Shingo Ito's appointment as a partner in Nishimura & Asahi's London office signifies a significant step in the firm's strategic expansion in Europe. His local legal qualification, advisory expertise, and focus on Japanese clients will undoubtedly contribute to the success of Japanese businesses operating in Europe.
Sources:
[1] Nishimura & Asahi Press Release. (2025). Shingo Ito joins Nishimura & Asahi's London office as partner. Retrieved from www.nishimura-asahi.com/press-releases
[2] The Lawyer. (2025). Shingo Ito joins Nishimura & Asahi's London office. Retrieved from www.thelawyer.com
Shingo Ito's expertise in cross-border mergers and acquisitions, as well as his knowledge of banking and finance, will position him well to advise Japanese businesses on their expansion into Europe. This strategic move by Nishimura & Asahi, along with their presence in technology-intensive sectors like renewable energy, highlights the interplay between business, law, finance, technology, and international transactions in the modern global economy.
